In this film, we’re in Lisbon, Portugal, following groups of children who have traveled to the city on international school trips. Lisbon’s hilly streets, beautiful views from spots like São Jorge Castle, and neighborhoods like Alfama are full of history and character. Plus, there’s the waterfront, where you can check out the Tower of Belém and try those famous pastéis de nata – and maybe some salted cod. It’s a pretty fantastic place to explore.
CAS Trips’ mission is to make that exploration both authentic and sustainable by providing experiences that connect children to the real city – beyond the tourist gloss.
CAS stands for Creativity, Activity, and Service – and that’s at the heart of all of the company’s work in destinations globally.
Our film sees the children spend time with ‘The Grandmas’; older women who have lived in the city all of their lives. They share their knowledge on walking tours, well off the traditional tourist track, telling stories about the realities of multi-generational family life in Lisbon and providing insights into the history of those communities. They share craft skills with the children, building connections through textiles, needle, and thread.
The same approach is used when interacting with local chefs to create authentic, sustainably sourced local dishes and in getting creative with the city’s artists. The children decorate Portuguese tiles that are an integral part of Lisbon’s ancient aesthetic.
In all of this, the message CAS Trips promotes is an awareness of the circular economy and the social impact of tourism done with sustainability and preservation in mind. Additionally, the importance of volunteering and collegiate effort in benefiting others is evident through hands-on involvement.
As the company’s Founder and CEO, Simon Armstrong tells us: “Through providing immersive, authentic experiences around the world, we have a rare and precious opportunity to impact the world view of teenagers when they are shaping those world views. We are doing our bit to shape well-rounded and well-informed global citizens.”
Sustainable Travel: Where Next?
This film is part of Sustainable Travel International’s Where Next series, a documentary collection showcasing sustainable tourism examples from destinations and companies worldwide, produced in partnership with Blackrook Media.
